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Heart-shaped European holiday spot with pretty sandy beaches and award-winning waterparks has £36 return flights
It's been compared to Italy but it's a much cheaper alternative
HOLIDAYMAKERS priced out of a trip to Italy this summer may be able to get a similar experience elsewhere and for much cheaper.
Istria is a heart-shaped peninsula in Croatia that has been compared to Italy, while also being praised for its beaches, sun and vast range of activities.
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It's also said to be something of a hidden spot too, away from the country's busier tourist hotspots like Split and Dubrovnik.
i-Escape included Istria in their list of "secret" destinations people should consider in Europe and said it had a huge variety of things for tourists to do.
They wrote: "The Dalmatian Coast’s popularity has caused prices to soar and yachts to flock, so instead, look north to Istria, the heart-shaped peninsula in Croatia’s top corner.
"There’s a distinctly Italian feel to the region, its slopes cloaked in olive groves, truffles and vineyards, and its turquoise coastline glittering in the sunshine. Istria’s trump card is its variety.
"Sip Merlot in the winelands, explore the Roman ruins in Pula, stroll the attractive streets of coastal Opatija and Lovran, or ascend the majestic peaks of the Velebit or Gorski Kotar ranges."
Of the beaches in Istria, Njive is among the favourites, with Places of Juma labelling it a "real dream beach".
They continued: "It is probably one of the most gorgeous bays in all of Croatia.
"This beautiful cove is located directly in the famous Cape Kamenjak Nature Park, a protected area where you can definitely find some of the best beaches in Istria.
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"It delights with magnificent turquoise sea colours and stunning wild rock formations, where you can find even quieter swimming spots."
Other popular beaches include Hawaii Beach and Zambratija, all offering relaxed and quiet places to enjoy the sea and the sand.
Away from the beaches and vineyards are fascinating slices of history, with Pula's Roman amphitheatre the sixth largest in the world, drawing further comparisons between Istria and Italy.
There's also the Triumphal Arch, the Door of Hercules, the Temple of the Emperor Augustus and a second small Roman theatre dotted about throughout the city for visitors to explore.
However, it's the giant amphitheatre that people flock to visit, with gladiator reconstructions performed there in the summer.
One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: "Like the Colosseum in Rome, the amphitheatre dominates the landscape.
"It's a must-see destination."
Istria is also home to Croatia's largest waterpark Aquapark Porec Aquacolors.
It boasts several "extreme" waterslides, including the Freefall, a 48-metre long drop and Turbolance which features a steep drop, reverses and a splash pool, all while taking "crazy photos" of riders.
However, there are also calmer rides for youngsters including family rafting slides.
The park has a TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award due to the number of positive ratings it has received.
One parent wrote: "Super cool, if you have all day and wanna give your kids some fun, take them to the Aquacolors."
Another person added: "It was a great experience, we were with children and everybody was happy!"
Return flights are available from around £36 from both London Stansted and Luton.
A night for two in Istria can be booked from £19.
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